Representatives of countries participating in Pacific Partnership 2017

The Da Nang mission stop marks the 4^th consecutive year and the 8^th time in 11 years that Pacific Partnership missions have occurred in Vietnam's provinces and cities. The event, which includes the traditional humanitarian aid and disaster relief, medical, engineering and community relation projects, is aimed at promoting the comprehensive partnership between the US and Vietnam and collaboration among partner countries. Pacific Partnership personnel will work side-by-side with Vietnamese civilian medical officers, pay a courtesy call to leaders of the Da Nang People's Committee, participate in civil engineering projects and exchange expertise with military medical staff, as well as participate in community projects.  US Ambassador to Vietnam Ted Osius said natural disasters don't recognize borders, so Vietnam, the US and other Pacific nations must be prepared to respond quickly. Through Pacific Partnership, the countries are working and training together so that when disasters strike, they can seamlessly assist those in need, he said, adding that the countries’ collaboration will enhance regional capacity in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. Pacific Partnership will continue on to Khanh Hoa province following its stop in Da Nang.